Which part of the body is involved with hay fever or allergic rhinitis?

Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, primarily affects the nasal passages. Allergic rhinitis occurs when the immune system reacts to allergens in the air, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, and itchy eyes or throat. The condition is triggered by exposure to allergens like pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander.

While the eyes can also be affected (resulting in itchy or watery eyes) and can contribute to the overall experience of allergic rhinitis, the main site of inflammation and symptom expression is within the nose. The nasal membranes become inflamed as a response to the allergens, leading to the characteristic symptoms of hay fever.

Other areas of the body, such as the lungs and skin, can be involved in different allergic reactions or conditions, but they are not the primary sites of action for hay fever specifically. Therefore, the nose is the correct answer in identifying the key part of the body involved with hay fever or allergic rhinitis.